CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsMedium
A resident who had a stroke has difficulty speaking but can understand what is said to her. Which approach will best support communication?
- AAsk her to write detailed responses on paper
- BSpeak for her when others ask her questions
- CUse a picture or communication board so she can point to answers
- DAvoid asking her questions since she cannot answer verbally
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Use a picture or communication board so she can point to answers
A picture or communication board allows a resident with expressive aphasia to point to needs or answers without requiring speech or fine motor writing skills. Speaking for her removes her autonomy, and avoiding communication isolates her.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Writing may be difficult if the stroke also affects motor control of the hand.
- B. Speaking for her denies her the chance to communicate independently.
- D. Avoiding questions isolates the resident and ignores her comprehension abilities.
Communication Board Use
A tool with pictures, words, or symbols that nonverbal or aphasic residents can point to in order to communicate needs.
- Useful for stroke-related aphasia
- Supports resident autonomy
- Should be paired with patience and simple yes/no questions
Memory trick: Can't speak? Let them point instead.